My First Pileup & Ashby on HF

Well, I had my first experience with a pileup on Saturday. I had been dying to use the new phrase I coined, "CQ on the 20!" I decided to find me an open spot during last weekends QSO party, even though I wasn't contesting, and call CQ. The effects were immediate.

It was so funny. Tim (AJ4JD) was on one side of me, trying to log everything down as fast as he could -- Dad (KU4ME) was behind me with the laptop watching my QRZed lookup count go through the roof -- Ashby (KJ4EGJ) was just being quiet because she's finally gotten into the habit of not being loud when the mic is keyed up -- And Mom (KF4SSI) even came out to see. I was trying to keep up the best I could, and I think I did an okay job at it. I'm pretty sure I got everyone's call right -- although I may have called one OM Pete instead of Keith -- HAHA -- Sorry Keith.

I had a blast with that though. I really had every intention of helping out contesters -- but I ended up having more non-contesters. I didn't mind though. I just enjoyed making contacts and having the conversations that I did. I made 26 contacts in 30 minutes from 15 different states. I sure hope some send cards for the states I need! I'll wait a while, but if they don't send one, I might send one to them and wait for the mail-lady to bring my reciprocate cards. HAHA

Also, Ashby made her first contacts on HF as a General class. She made quite a few on 20m, and was more interested in the Lighthouses than anything. She didn't care too much for the contesters -- they were going way to fast for her.

Here's some pictures of her working HF:

Ashby talking on HF

Ashby learning the 756Pro